HIGHTOWN residents have been warned to stay vigilant over the festive period after a spate of burglaries.

Four incidents were reported in Blundell Road, Thornbeck Avenue, Mark Road and Sandy Lane last week.

On Wednesday, December 18, a car was also reported stolen.

Parish councillor John McCall said that the burglaries were the result of opportunist thieves selecting the isolated village.

He said: “We believe they are knocking to establish that a house is empty before making their way round the back and breaking a window, but then waiting to see if there is a reaction before entering.

“We have spoken to the police and they have committed to come to our parish council meeting in January and onwards, which is good.

“We have also been given comfort by the raise in marked and non uniform coverage in village.”

Merseyside Police confirmed that five incidents had taken place during last week and that thieves were taking Christmas presents and other easily portable items before escaping by train.

A police spokesperson said: “Burglaries tend to increase at this time of year, due to the dark nights and thieves targeting properties to look for expensive Christmas gifts.

“There have been five burglaries in the Hightown area in the last week and I would ask people to be extra-vigilant and ensure that they take home security seriously.

“One line of inquiry is that some offenders may be using the rail network to travel to and from areas within Sefton and we are working closely with our British Transport Police colleagues and other partners to identify these individuals and bring them to justice. Patrols have also been stepped up in the area.

“People not locking their uPVC doors remains a big problem as it is giving criminals an easy ride.

“The force runs regular crime prevention surgeries throughout the area. For details of the next surgery taking place in you area please contact 101.”